I took a 5-week Self-Defense course in 1993 which was very effective and supportive, so when I was invited, as part of that course, to take one free Karate class, I did so, even though I thought to myself, "Me? Karate?? Never!" Well, one class was all it took. Thirteen years of studying martial arts followed, and I am honestly a different, better person both for the physical skills I learned, the community I joined, the friends I made, and the awareness of issues I gained such as gender discrimination and social injustice.

I now walk the streets with more confidence, have better verbal self-defense and personal boundary skills, and treat others with as much respect as possible. I know how to take care of myself and share that knowledge with friends and family.

One of dozens of examples I can offer is a bit of a funny story. While dancing in a club, a man approached me on the dance floor and attempted to put his arms around my waist. I looked him in the eye, stepped back and said firmly, Don't touch me. He backed off immediately, insulted, but why should I worry about insulting him? He said he was a TV soap opera star and don't I recognize him? That I missed my chance! Ha! What an ego! I will only be touched when and by whom I chose.

There are more serious stories to share, but I'll end here. I can't imagine myself today without CAE, a unique and wonderful organization which has touched the lives of thousands. It changes lives, like mine.